Temperatures in the 90s did not stop nearly two hundred small business supporters and owners from making their case in a march down Leroy Street in Fenton Wednesday afternoon.  Perhaps a recession is the best time to let those passing by know you are open for business. 

“We are the ones that sponsor the little league teams, put the banners up on football fields, put the money in the collection box at church, etc.  It is important. We need each other,” said Dennis Shaefer, owner of Creative Wood Products and chief organizer of the march. 

He teamed up with other business owners who liked his idea of a march and next thing he knew, fifty small businesses were represented from Fenton and as far away as Linden and Howell. 

Shaefer said even in tough times, small businesses should not be overlooked. 

“A lot of times we can be the same price, even less than some of the big stores but if not, we understand.  We’ve got to save money,” he said.

In 2007, there were 27.2 million small businesses in the United States.  Those that marched in Fenton said they have no issue with large businesses; they just want their place known. 

“It’s great that we have the larger businesses in our community.  They have a lot to offer but small businesses are what is going to keep the economy going in Fenton and Linden and Holly,” said Diane Goers of H20 Basement Waterproofing Inc. in Linden. 

“I do a lot of business in this area,” said Natasha Jones of Remax Platinum in Fenton.  “A lot of small businesses I work with (are) my clients and it’s important to support each other right now,” she said. 

Given the state of the economy, Shaefer said supporting new businesses should be a big priority. 

“We’re losing a lot of small businesses, but we’re also gaining a lot.  Some people are starting new businesses and they are going to need help too,” he said.